Then I set up Cozy to collect first months rent online and utilities must be transfer to their name before handing over the keys.  

I was thinking I should start by buying something turn key for my first, but wondered if anyone thought there was an advantage to buying a foreclosure.

Communication will be key here what lever you two come up with is ideal!

Consistency is Key!

I feel I have a lot to learn when it comes to key topics like finding properties, analyzing deals, and doing due diligence.Does anyone have ideas on how to add value to investors in exchange for learning the game from them, or even just shadowing them?

I doubt that your road should be the same as mine, and I think you should spend some time coming to grips with what's best for your market and what's best for you.this is what mom and pop landlording is all about.. fully integrated from sourcing to maintaining to managing.. and every city has this type of landlord business owner..  

I think that's a "turn key" property?  

The key is a good team or if your buying near you just make sure your offer contains a good inspection and due diligence period.

The key to surviving a downturn in a market is holding power and not being overly leveraged.  

Other key mentors along the way have been a community banker, and a title company owner - all contributed to our knowledge base about the buying, lending and closing processes.If you haven't already started talking to lenders, I would recommend starting that process now.